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Character Quote by Gay Talese

“With all of the qualities of the scene-setting, the dialogue, the place and time and the time and place in which your characters move. And I want to move with the characters, move with them and describe the world in which they are living.” quote by Gay Talese
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“With all of the qualities of the scene-setting, the dialogue, the place and time and the time and place in which your characters move. And I want to move with the characters, move with them and describe the world in which they are living.”

Gay Talese

About This Quote

Source Interview: New Yorker profile, 1975

Immersion in setting and dialogue lets a writer experience characters’ world, enriching description and authenticity.

In simple terms: Live the story to write it well.

Key Takeaway

Engage deeply with your characters’ environment.

Themes

writing character development setting immersion

Mood

analytical inspired

Type

instructional creative

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • creative workshops

Key Concepts

literary journalism fiction technique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does setting influence character choices?
  • What techniques help you stay grounded?
A Different Perspective

Risk of losing objectivity if too immersed.

3.6 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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